Defining Characteristics

Skim through the water with mouth open to allow water to pass through their baleen which enables them to filter the copepods from the water

Typically have 500 plates of black baleen

Almost entirely black, besides a patch of white below their stomach, and a band of lighter color on their tail

The major physical difference between right and bowhead whales is that Right Whales have raised patches of skin around their head, near their mouth, and around their eyes. These rough patches are called callosities.

Small crustaceans known as cyamids (whale lice) live on the callosities and give them their white and yellow color.

Interesting Facts

Live alone or in groups of 3-4

Stocks severely depleted by whaling

Bowhead whales can break through up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) of ice

Bowhead whales have the largest baleen of any whale with many plates over 10 feet (3 meters) and a claim of one reaching 19 feet (6 meters)

Population estimates for North Atlantic Right Whales range between 400-500

Population estimates for North Pacific Right Whales range between 900-950